Inglewood, California — July 10, 2026
In a high-stakes European clash under the lights (and afternoon sun) at SoFi Stadium, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals. The victory marks La Roja’s first trip to the final four since their triumphant 2010 campaign.
The quarterfinal, the last World Cup match hosted in Los Angeles, delivered drama, tactical battles, and a late heroics moment before a packed, vibrant crowd filled with passionate fans from both nations (and plenty of neutrals enjoying the spectacle).
First-Half Fireworks
Spain drew first blood in the 30th minute. Midfielder Fabián Ruiz found the net to give La Roja a deserved lead after they controlled much of the early play, showcasing their signature possession and quick transitions.
Belgium responded swiftly. Just 11 minutes later, in the 41st minute, Charles De Ketelaere rose to head home a well-delivered cross from Timothy Castagne (assisted by Leandro Trossard), leveling the score at 1-1. It was Belgium’s first goal conceded by Spain in the tournament, ending a strong defensive run.
The first half ended level, with both sides creating chances and the game living up to its billing as a heavyweight showdown featuring stars like Kevin De Bruyne for Belgium and young phenom Lamine Yamal for Spain.
Late Drama and the Winning Goal
The second half remained tense, with end-to-end action and near-misses. Spain dominated expected goals (around 2.08 xG to Belgium’s lower tally), but Belgium threatened on counters.
A pivotal moment came when Belgium’s star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury. His replacement, Senne Lammens, stepped in but faced immediate pressure.
In the 88th minute, Spain substitute Mikel Merino—on the pitch for just under two minutes—became the hero. A shot from Cubarsí was spilled by Lammens, and Merino pounced on the rebound at close range to fire home the 2-1 winner. SoFi Stadium erupted as Spanish fans celebrated wildly.
Spain held firm through stoppage time, weathering late Belgian pressure to secure the victory.
Key Stats and Performances
- Final Score: Spain 2 (Ruiz 30′, Merino 88′) – 1 (De Ketelaere 41′) Belgium
- Spain advances to face France in the semifinals.
- Attendance: Around 70,000+ at SoFi Stadium.
- Standouts included Yamal’s creativity for Spain and De Bruyne’s efforts for Belgium, though the Red Devils couldn’t find a second equalizer.
Historic Context and Aftermath
For Spain, this result ends a long wait and reignites dreams of a second World Cup title. Manager and players celebrated a resilient, tactically sharp performance that overcame an early second-half momentum shift from Belgium.
Belgium’s campaign ends with pride; they pushed a strong Spanish side to the limit in what may be the final major tournament push for some of their golden generation players.
The match also provided a significant economic and cultural boost to Los Angeles County, transforming SoFi into a global soccer stage for the tournament.
Spain now prepares for a blockbuster semifinal against France. With momentum and belief on their side, La Roja will be a dangerous opponent as the 2026 World Cup reaches its climax.
¡Vamos España!
